Meridian football team back at practice, 'working things out'

Meridian High School football Coach Bob Ames said the team forfeited its Sept. 12 game against Squalicum due to "internal issues," but did not elaborate.
The Bellingham Herald

The Meridian High School football team, which forfeited its game with Squalicum last Saturday due to "internal issues," held a closed practice Monday, Sept. 14.

There’s been speculation some sort of rift occurred between players and members of the coaching staff, but no player, coach or administrator has confirmed that information. Meridian School Superintendent Tom Churchill released a statement Monday saying the team was "working things out on their own."

Coach Bob Ames told The Bellingham Herald last Friday he would not comment on the reasoning behind the forfeit.

"We are dealing with some internal issues at the school," Ames said.

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Churchill released a pair of statements, posted to MeridianFootball.com, Sunday, Sept. 13, updating what is presumed an ongoing situation with the Trojans' football team.

Below is Churchill’s written statement:

A Message from the Superintendent Regarding the Football Issue

“While I understand the passion surrounding the football program, I am concerned about the potential damage this may cause in our community. Therefore, I am asking everyone to be respectful of each other, our coaches, our student athletes, our staff and our families.

“The coaches held a meeting with the players on Friday afternoon. I am very pleased with our coaching staff and our student athletes for their commitment to communication.

“Therefore, I am asking everyone to allow the coaches and the student athletes the opportunity to work things out on their own. This is a learning experience for everyone and we need to allow the coaches and student athletes time and space for this process.”

Please be respectful.

Thank you.

Tom Churchill, Superintendent

Churchill released a second statement saying practice Monday, Sept. 14, was closed to the public.

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